1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Ambassador would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 146 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 AMC Ambassador is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 AMC Ambassador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 AMC Ambassador (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | AMC | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Ambassador | 164 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2670 mm |
